Live Beyond the Norms John Brink on War, ADHD, Bodybuilding at 84 & Building a 400-Person Company from Scratch
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Most people slow down in their 60s. John Brink became a competitive bodybuilder in his 70s and now, at 84, he’s still lifting more than most 20-year-olds.
Born during WWII in Nazi-occupied Holland, John grew up scavenging train yards for food, dodging bombs, and surviving trauma that would shape the rest of his life. At age 23, he immigrated to Canada with nothing but a suitcase, $25, and three books, and eventually built a company employing over 400 people.
But his journey didn’t stop there. Diagnosed with ADHD at age 62, John finally understood what made him different and how his “disorder” was actually a superpower that fueled his drive, energy, and creativity. Now a five-time author, active podcaster, and passionate speaker, he’s on a mission to prove that age is just a number—and life doesn’t have to slow down unless you let it.
In this episode, John shares his unfiltered take on longevity, building a life of purpose, and why your mindset is your strongest asset. You’ll also learn how he conquered anxiety, why he calls ADHD “a gift,” and the surprising health scare that turned him into a vegan bodybuilder at 68.
"Your body is extremely forgiving. It wants to be healthy, but it needs you and your mind to say 'I can and I will.'" ~ John Brink
About John Brink:
John A. Brink is a war survivor, bodybuilder, author, podcast host, and founder of the Brink Group of Companies—an enterprise that includes lumber manufacturing, logistics, real estate, and media, employing over 400 people. After being diagnosed with ADHD in his 60s, John reframed his story, writing books like ADHD Unlocked, Finding Your Passion, and Living Young, Dying Old. At 84, he continues to speak globally, publish books annually, and train as a competitive bodybuilder. He lives in British Columbia with his wife and horses, proving daily that it’s never too late to rewrite your story.
Connect with John Brink:
- Website: https://www.johnabrink.com
- Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-brink/id1523109056
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john.a.brink/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrinkGroup/
Connect with Chris Burres:
- Website: https://www.myvitalc.com/
- Website: http://www.livebeyondthenorms.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisburres/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myvitalc
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisburres/